HC Deb 05 May 1927 vol 205 c1742
22. Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

asked the Minister of Health whether he has received any recommendations from boards of guardians that, in view of the abolition of the office of overseer, the chairmen of parish councils and parish meetings should be authorised to grant relief in sudden and urgent cases; and what action he proposes to take in this matter?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have recceived some recommendations to the effect suggested, but I see no reason for altering the present arrangement originally recommended to me by the Poor Law Unions Association under which the functions of the overseers in respect of the conditions referred to have been transferred to the relieving officer.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND - TROYTE

Does not my right hon. Friend realise that urgent cases may arise a long way from a relieving officer?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Well, Sir, I am keeping the matter under consideration, but I have no reason to suppose at present that any difficulty may be experienced.